Business regulation bill worries Naples officials

Naples city leaders are worried a proposed Florida House bill would strip them of power to regulate businesses.

"If we can't regulate, then anything could happen," said City Manager Bill Moss.

This is in response to House Bill 17, which would prohibit local governments to impose certain regulations on businesses. It was introduced by Rep. Randy Fine, R-Palm Bay. He said it would help businesses and create jobs, but Moss is worried about what that may mean.

"Adult entertainment establishments could be created anywhere without regard as to how it may impact the neighborhood," Moss said.

The City of Naples regulates zoning, the hours when commercial work can be done, what kinds of businesses they choose to accept, when live music can be played, rules regarding short term rentals, and more.

Seasonal resident Peter Belletti said he supports some local regulation.

"I think the state should mind its own business on that, them type of things should be left up to local government. Local government understands the local policies, the local agenda," Belletti said.

Much of the debate in Naples focuses on things like zoning and building and could disappear under the new bill. Less regulation, especially when it comes to live music, could be a good thing for businesses.

"It's a huge draw, the weekends we've got live music Thursday- Sunday and all those nights are busiest nights, all those people really enjoy it," said Colin Estrem, the owner of 7th Avenue Social.

Estrem had to get a permit from the city before he could have live musicians.

"If they did kind of make it a little bit easier, that could help a business owner for sure."

The bill is currently in committee. A similar bill is being discussed in the Senate.

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